Family, friends asking for help after Stonehill College junior injured in ‘horrific’ bicycle accident

Family and friends of a Stonehill College junior are asking for help after the student was injured in a “horrific” bicycle accident while traveling in Spain. 

Lauren Rauseo was studying abroad in Paris and had taken a trip to Spain on with friends March 17 when the accident happened, Rauseo’s parents told WCVB. She is now “battling a severe health crisis” in a Spanish hospital after sustaining injuries to her head and body, according to a GoFundMe started three days ago to raise funds to help her family with expenses. 

Her parents told WCVB that Rauseo was riding bikes with her friends when she decided to take a side road to catch up to them, but the road led her down a large hill, causing her to strike a wall.

“[Rauseo] is in a medically induced coma and in critical (but stable) condition and has a long road ahead of her,” reads the GoFundMe, organized by Ryan Desmarais. “As she fights for her life, her parents are by her side, providing love, support and strength during this incredibly difficult time. However, alongside the emotional toll, they are facing significant financial burdens.”

The family is trying to get Rauseo med flighted back to Boston once she is medically stable enough, the cost of which is “staggering,” according to the GoFundMe.

“Additionally, her parents are enduring expenses for accommodations near the hospital, meals and other incidentals that are associated with being away from home,” Desmarais wrote in the fundraiser. 

Rauseo reportedly has a traumatic brain injury and several broken bones, her parents told Boston 25. However, the Stonehill junior has made improvements and is now alert and talking, WCVB reported. 

Rauseo was awarded a competitive scholarship to support her study abroad experience in Paris, Stonehill College announced last month. Rauseo is studying English and communications and is from Londonderry, N.H. according to the college. 

“Receiving this scholarship means the world to me. This aid allows me to fully enjoy this opportunity without having to worry about finances,” Rauseo told the school. 

The GoFundMe page for Rauseo’s family had raised more than $43,000 out of its $150,000 goal as of Sunday night. 

“Thank you for your kindness, compassion and generosity,” the GoFundMe reads. “Your support means the world to the Rauseo family during this difficult time in their lives.”

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